Charlotte and the Nutcracker: The True Story of a Girl Who Made Ballet History
Inspiring story of young ballet dancer's leap into history.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Charlotte and the Nutcracker: The True Story of a Girl Who Made Ballet History is a beautiful picture book. It highlights parts of the classic Christmas tale The Nutcracker and the true story of 12-year-old author and ballerina, Charlotte Nebres. She had to work very hard to become the first Black dancer to be cast in the starring role of Marie in the New York City ballet's world-famous production of The Nutcracker, and she appreciates being a role model for other children watching her. Holiday cheer, the importance of perseverance, and having passion for what you love are all central themes of the book.
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What's the Story?
CHARLOTTE AND THE NUTCRACKER: THE TRUE STORY OF A GIRL WHO MADE BALLET HISTORY follows the story of Charlotte, a biracial Trinidadian and Filipino girl, who has two main passions in life: Christmas and ballet. One day, after ballet class, Charlotte and her sister are taken to a ballet show by their mother. Charlotte is mesmerized by a ballet dancer's glowing brown skin, and dreams of being on a big stage one day. She commits to practicing every day, and her dream comes true when she is the first Black dancer to be cast in the role of Marie in the New York City ballet's world-famous production of The Nutcracker. When her dreams come true, she wants to be a role model for other boys and girls so they can create big dreams too. But when they curtain goes up on opening night will she be able to embody the magical spirit of Christmas on stage?
Is It Any Good?
This warm picture book puts a modern spin on a holiday classic, and proves that representation matters. Charlotte and the Nutcracker: The True Story of a Girl Who Made Ballet History shares the inspiring and history-making story of author and ballerina Charlotte Nebres. This story will empower readers to chase their dreams, and it proves how powerful it is to see people who look like you in important positions. The book highlights holiday traditions of a multicultural family, and the strength of family love and support. Alea Marley's bright and dynamic illustrations from leap off the page and are filled with holiday magic and spirit.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how in Charlotte and the Nutcracker: The True Story of a Girl Who Made Ballet History, Charlotte stars in The Nutcracker ballet. Have you ever been to a ballet show? What was your favorite part?
Charlotte's family has a tradition of making a holiday feast that includes making spicy meat stew and fruit pastries. Does your family have traditional holiday recipes? Which recipes are your favorites?
How do you think Charlotte felt when she got the part of Marie in the New York City ballet's production of The Nutcracker?
Book Details
- Author: Charlotte Nebres
- Illustrator: Alea Marley
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Arts and Dance, Great Girl Role Models, Holidays
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: December 21, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 8
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: December 17, 2021
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